A patch of bushland in Bridgeman Downs, home to koalas and other native wildlife, is under threat after plans emerged to divide the property into residential lots, prompting a growing call from residents for Brisbane City Council to step in and protect the land.
Community Pushes Back On Housing Plans
In 2023, a developer proposed dividing a 9613-square-metre site at 440 Beckett Road, Bridgeman Downs, into 14 residential lots. Each lot would range from 368 to 474 square metres. An ecological report identified the land as core koala habitat, with mature trees and native vegetation supporting local wildlife.
However, due to local zoning, the area is not protected under current state laws. This has frustrated residents and environmental groups, who say inaction could permanently damage vital habitat in a rapidly growing suburb.
Petition Aims To Stop Further Development
Residents have launched a petition urging Brisbane City Council to buy the Bridgeman Downs site through its bushland acquisition program. They say the land is a vital wildlife corridor that allows native animals, including koalas, to move safely. The petition is still gathering signatures and has become a focal point for community concern.
Support has grown amid news that no bushland was purchased by the council last year, the first time in 35 years. This has raised wider questions about how environmental priorities are being handled as development pressures increase.
Council Under Community Pressure
Council representatives have requested a revised submission from the developer to address environmental concerns more thoroughly. While this may slow the process, residents say it still falls short of what’s needed to protect the land.
Many in the community believe the council should take stronger, proactive steps now rather than wait for planning decisions to play out. So far, there has been no commitment from the council to purchase the land. Locals worry that delays increase the risk of losing green space that supports native wildlife and cannot be easily restored.
Bigger Picture: Growth Vs. Green Space
The Bridgeman Downs proposal highlights a broader issue across south-east Queensland, where housing developments are spreading into semi-rural and bushland areas. Residents see this as part of a wider trend that threatens wildlife and reduces green space. With koala populations declining, many are calling for stronger protections and faster action from local councils.
Petition supporters say the council should use its bushland acquisition fund to buy and protect important habitat. They believe doing so would show that preserving natural areas is still a priority as urban growth continues.
Published 12-June-2025
